EP4026040A1

EP4026040A1 - Instructional material: multiplication and division teaching toy penholder

Info

Publication number: EP4026040A1
Application number: EP21774673.4A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Yunis AH NKAYASI; Hamide AH NKAYASI
Original assignee: Hatay Mustafa Kemal Universitesi
Current assignee: Sahinkayasi Hamide; Sahinkayasi Yunis
Priority date: 2020-03-27
Filing date: 2021-02-26
Publication date: 2022-07-13
Anticipated expiration: 2041-02-26
Also published as: EP4026040A4; WO2021194448A1; EP4026040B1

Abstract

This invention (product) is a concrete instructional material that helps primary school students learn and especially reinforce forward-backward rhythmic counting and multiplication-division tables, which they have difficulty in learning at mathematics courses, and allows them to play individually or in groups on the subject. The product consists of a penholder and a toy. The product looks like a vertical cylindrical penholder that the toy is attached at and detached from top face. Multiplication and division equations, which are inverse operations, are simultaneously written on penholder. The students multiply the numbers 1-10 with numbers 1- 10 whenever and wherever they want and write their equations on front side of penholder. They simultaneously write the inverse (division) equations on backside of it (e.g. 5 X 3 =15 and 15/3=5 and vice versa is possible. Students play games individually or in groups on product. In game, students randomly select one of 42 different numbers that are product/dividend in equations, and write equation/ equations of the number they selected on penholder and get points. Students monitor their game performance with game tracking-scoring form and this form gives them feedback-correction. In this product, students study, learn and reinforce forward-backward rhythmic counting and multiplication-division tables both as a whole and modularly.

Description

INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIAL: MULTIPLICATION AND DIVISION TEACHING

TOY PENHOLDER

Technological Area:

This invention is related to a concrete instructional material (product: toy penholder) that helps primary school students learn -and especially reinforce- on forward-backward rhythmic counting and multiplication-division tables that are difficult to learn in mathematics lessons and allow them to play on these subjects individually or in groups.

Current Situation of the Technique:

Since mathematics is a discipline consisting of abstract and symbolic concepts, teachers in teaching and students in learning have difficulties especially in primary school level. Primary school students, not able to think intangibly yet, have various problems in conceptual and operational learning processes of mathematics courses. The most important problem is that students cannot fully learn forward-backward rhythmic counting and multiplication-division tables and cannot perform operations related to them, the most basic subjects of mathematics courses. This problem causes students to develop a negative attitude towards mathematics and even fail in mathematics courses throughout their education lives. Therefore, students have to learn forward-backward rhythmic counting, the prerequisite knowledge and skills of multiplication-division operations. Students also need to perform conceptual and operational learning on multiplication-division, based on forward-backward rhythmic counting.

However, it is not possible that all students achieve this by doing limited drills of forward- backward rhythmic counting and multiplication-division during only mathematics class hours. To overcome this difficulty, teachers assign homework on the topic and try to have them memorize multiplication-division tables. Yet, these require teachers to check each student and give feedback-correction to each one. Considering the number of students per teacher and the effort and time to spend on each student, it may not be possible for the teacher to be able to do this. In this case, teachers can apply for peer assessment or parental support. However, these methods also have problems such as sincerity and trust. As a result, for teaching primary school mathematics topics the relevant literature suggests inclusion of instructional materials in teaching-learning process that help teachers and students -even parents- and support them. In this regard, there is a need for a concrete instructional (product) material that allows students to study, comprehend, learn and reinforce both forward-backward rhythmic counting and multiplication-division conceptually and operationally. In order to meet this need, on whenever and wherever they want the product proposed in this specification allows students to perform simultaneously and unlimited number of forward-backward rhythmic counting, to practice multiplication-division exercises, and to play games on the subject individually or in groups. In addition, this product helps students realize, comprehend, make sense of the relationship between multiplication-division operations, which are opposite to each other, and leam the multiplication-division tables.

As a result of the searches done in the relevant databases, among the existing applications, no application that has all characteristics of the invention (product) proposed in this specification was encountered. When accessed applications are examined according to their basic characteristics, products in applications are generally two or three-dimensional (2D or 3D); square shaped (2007/06226, 2017/07231, 2007/06226 etc.), rectangular (CN2831302Y, 2012/06173, 2017/06759, GB2480256A etc.), circular (GB667706A, CN2241367Y, CN2241367Y etc.) or cylindrical (CN2061900U, JPS5331421A, US4714429A, CN86210344U,

GB2227862B, GB1390155A etc.). Especially square and rectangular shaped products generally designed in 2D and big sizes, based on block-based teaching methods and only multiplication operation is exist in many of them. As to the circular and cylindrical products, they have been generally designed in three dimensions and relatively smaller. Most of the available products are based on matrix-based notation and only multiplication is covered.

Description of Invention:

There are three basic innovations making this application an invention. First, none of the existing products show both operation of multiplication and division in accordance with universal math writing (equality) and simultaneously. In this product, students can choose any of numbers from 1-10 and multiply it with any of them; they can see this operation of multiplication as an equation, and simultaneously inverse of this operation, equation of division operation. Thus, students can establish the relationships between components in multiplication and division operations (multiplicand, multiplier, product, dividend, divisor and quotient). Second, none of the products available show multiplication and division equations simultaneously modular (individually) and blocks (as a whole). In this product, on the other hand, students can obtain equations of any of numbers 1-10 multiplied by them, either in blocks or modularly. Students see the inverse of these multiplication equations, i.e. the division equations, simultaneously in blocks or modularly. Third, almost none of the applications available have a game part. It is an important problem to motivate students to use this and similar products. In this regard, a fun and an educational game has been developed encouraging students to use product and allowing them to play games individually or in groups. Indeed, the game itself (game elements - dynamics, mechanics and rewards) developed for the product and especially the game matrix, is an invention in itself. Such a game has not been come across in any databases. This game increases willingness of students to use product, thus enabling them to learn and reinforce forward-backward rhythmic counting and multiplication-division tables.

The researches in relevant databases have shown that the invention both eliminates disadvantages of existing products and brings some advantages. Existing products are generally designed in big sizes as 2D and aimed at teaching only multiplication operation. This invention (product), on the other hand, is designed in small size as 3D and aimed to teach both multiplication and division operations. Almost all of the existing products show forward rhythmic counting and multiplication operations generally in blocks and do not show it appropriate to universal mathematical notation (equation). However, this product displays forward-backward rhythmic counts and multiplication-division operations, both in blocks and modularly, with universal mathematical notation (as equation). This invention helps teachers in teaching processes of forward-backward rhythmic counting and multiplication-division operations in primary school mathematics course; it helps students in learning processes such as doing exercises and homework.

In addition to the applications described under the “Current Situation of the Technique” title, there are other applications on the subject. However, only those that are directly related to this application in terms of subject and scope are included here. When the other applications are examined, it is understood that most of them are only for teaching multiplication table and do not cover division operation. In this application, it is aimed to teach primary school students both multiplication and division operations. In line with this goal, the product is designed to allow students to write both multiplication and division equations simultaneously. Therefore, students both concentrate on multiplication-division operations and perform forward-backward rhythmic counts in related operations, and simultaneously perceive and establish relationships between multiplication-division equations, and thus learn by understanding of equations. Most of the applications reviewed on the subject do not include division operation; there are also some disadvantages in terms of production and technical aspects. These disadvantages can be summarized as follow: considering level of target audience, most products are complex as they are above cognitive level of them, which makes it difficult for them to fully understand and use product on their own. In addition, since most products consist of too many independent parts, they are difficult not only to be produced, but also to be used and stored by students and teachers. In addition, most products are heavy in mass and very large in size, making it difficult for primary school students to carry and use them. The product in this invention, on the other hand, is small in size, light in weight and has two parts (one part if the toy part is attached to penholder), so it is ergonomic for target audience to carry, use and store. In this way, students can store product anywhere, carry it anywhere without difficulty, and easily hold it with one hand and use it with the other. The product consists of two parts, a penholder and a toy. Penholder allows students to count backwards and forwards rhythmically, to write multiplication and division equations; toy part allows students to randomly select multiplication/division equations to be written on penholder individually or in groups. In summary, most current products neither include multiplication-division operations together nor allow students to use individually them wherever, whenever and as much as they want. Also, they only serve the limited use of a limited number of students in a classroom setting under the supervision of a teacher. However, students can use this product wherever they want, whenever they want and as much as they want to learn both forward-backward rhythmic counting and multiplication-division tables, to play game on the subject both individually or in groups, and as a penholder. Almost all products for the multiplication and division tables are in shape of regular polygons (mostly rectangle or square). The fact that this product resembles a cylindrical penholder with a handle, can be held with one hand and used with the other hand, making a “click” sound in every multiplication-division operation and containing a game makes it perceive and use as a portable toy consisting of two parts. The product is particularly suitable for cognitive development levels of primary school students, in concrete operational stage. These characteristics make product easy to use and add fun to use.

The fact that plastic, wood or both together can be preferably used as raw materials in production process of product makes product robust, durable and lightweight. This makes the product more useful, durable and ergonomic. The absence of any electronic or magnetic parts in product prevents students from being exposed to magnetic field or radiation. In addition, product does not require any energy source (generator: adapter, battery, etc.), it can be used independently of energy, thus saving energy. The product is designed according to product- oriented instructional design models. In addition, it is developed considering visual design elements (line, shape, area, size, texture and color) and its principles (integrity, balance, emphasis, alignment/hierarchy and proximity), so it helps primary school students learn in accordance with their pedagogy. In addition, universal design principles (equitable use, flexibility in use, simple and intuitive use, perceptible information, tolerance for error, low physical effort, and size and space for approach and use) were taken into consideration while developing the product.

The ability to write equations of multiplication and division operations on penholder and follow them on a line basis makes it easier for students to perceive and comprehend the concept of equation. Multiplicand in multiplication equations and quotient in division equations written in each line are the same number and indicated from round hole. Parallel to this, product in multiplication equations and dividend in division equations are the same number and indicated from square hole (e.g. © ^{x 3 =} ^{÷ J} “©). This situation makes it easier for students to perceive relationships between equations. This visual coding in equations helps students to quickly and accurately recognize, perceive, understand and learn relationships between the multiplication-division equations and components of these equations.

The fact that product allows simultaneous study of forward-backward rhythmic counting and multiplication-division operations in blocks and modularly enables students to learn rhythmic counting and multiplication-division tables. Students can easily realize that dividend is product, quotient is multiplicand and divisor is multiplier in equations of multiplication and division written simultaneously on product (® ^{X J ==}[*3 and L^!SJ “©). Students see, understand, interpret and learn practically how components (numbers) in equations change places. In this sense, product does not instantly give result of operation like electronic calculators; instead, students write themselves multiplication or division operations on penholder. Thus, students experience not only result but also process, which supports them not to memorize operations, but to understand and learn relationship between multiplication-division equations and forward- backward rhythmic counting. In summary, studying forward-backward rhythmic counting and multiplication-division by using product help students learn these operations and equations in relational and meaningful ways. Thanks to this invention (product), primary school students do rhythmic counting with numbers 1-10 forwards and backwards 10 times, practice and learn in multiplication and division tables, whether for learning (homework, practice) or entertainment (game). In addition to these, using symbols of times, over and equals (x, ÷, =) in equations written on product helps students to learn concept of equation.

Description of Figures: Main purpose of figures given in detail in the specification is to provide a better understanding of both technical details of the invention and claims. For this reason, all parts, their functions and properties visible in figures are indicated with references. The detailed technical description of this invention can only be made through inclusive description of seven figures given below. By means of the figures, every detail of the invention is conceptually and functionally explained with examples and reference numbers.

Figure 1 Multiplication side view of product Figure 2 Division side view of product Figure 3 Top view of product (without game/toy)

Figure 4 Multiplication side view of hoops and multiplication side view of product without hoops

Figure 5 Division side view of hoops and division side view of product without hoops

Figure 6 Top view of game/toy

Figure 7 Game tracking-scoring form view

Description of References in the Figures:

1 : Product multiplication side 2: Multiplication side fixed area 3 : Multiplication side fixed area: times symbols 4: Multiplication side fixed area: multipliers 5 : Multiplication side fixed area: equals symbols 6: Multiplication side variable area: multiplicands 7 : Multiplication side variable area: products

8: Multiplication side variable area: round hole showing multiplicand of hoop 10

9: Multiplication side variable area: square hole showing product of hoop 10

10: Holding handle

11 : Product body

12: Hoop 10 rotator

13: All hoop rotators

14: Product top face

15: Product bottom face

16: Multiplication side fixed area: times symbol of hoop 10 17: Multiplication side fixed area: multiplier of hoop 10 18: Multiplication side fixed area: equal symbol of hoop 10 19: Slot and lock of hoop 10 20: Slots-locks of all hoops (arc angle: 45°)

21 : Product division side 22: Division side fixed area 23: Division side fixed area: over symbols 24: Division side fixed area: divisors 25 : Division side fixed area: equals symbols 26: Division side variable area: dividends 27 : Division side variable area: quotients

28: Division side variable area: square hole showing dividend of hoop 10

29: Division side variable area: round hole showing quotient of hoop 10

30: Division side fixed area: over symbol of hoop 10

31: Division side fixed area: divisor of hoop 10

32: Division side fixed area: equals symbol of hoop 10

33: Multiplication side of hoops (arc angle: 90°)

34: Division side of hoops (arc angle: 90°)

35: Penholder 36: Lid of hoops

37: Spring plunger positioning hoops (10 pieces vertically)

38: Ten notches on lateral face of hoops (arc angle: 45°)

39a: Unused lateral face of hoops (arc angle: 45°)

39b: Unused lateral face of hoops (arc angle: 22.5°)

39c: Unused lateral face of hoops (arc angle 22.5 °)

40: Bearing of hoops (10 pieces vertically)

41: Top face of hoops

42: Multiplication side view of hoop 1

43: Multiplication side view of hoop 2

44: Multiplication side view of hoop 3

45: Multiplication side view of hoop 4

46: Multiplication side view of hoop 5

47: Multiplication side view of hoop 6

48: Multiplication side view of hoop 7

49: Multiplication side view of hoop 8

50: Multiplication side view of hoop 9

51: Multiplication side view of hoop 10

52: Multiplication side view of hoops

53: Multiplication side view of product without hoops

54: Multiplication side view of hoops and multiplication side view of product without hoops 55: Division side view of hoop 1 56: Division side view of hoop 2 57: Division side view of hoop 3

58: Division side view of hoop 4

59: Division side view of hoop 5

60: Division side view of hoop 6

61 : Division side view of hoop 7

62: Division side view of hoop 8

63 : Division side view of hoop 9

64: Division side view of hoop 10

65 : Division side view of hoops

66: Division side view of product without hoops

67 : Division side view of hoops and division side view of product without hoops

68: Game instruction area

69: Selection area of number and operation type

70: Transparent lid of selection area of number and operation type

71 : Game numbers

72: Area showing equation frequency of game numbers

73: Game numbers with four equations

74: Game numbers with three equations

75: Game numbers with two equations

76: Game numbers with one equation

77: Oval ball selecting number and operation type

78: Field of game numbers

79: Field of operation type

80: Key showing all equations of game numbers

81 : Player performance record field

82: Third player performance record field

83: Multiplication equations of number two

84: Division equations of number two

85: Third player’s multiplication scoring area for number two

86: Third player’s division scoring area for number two

87: Operation type for number two: multiplication

88: Operation type for number two: division

89: Selected number with oval ball (two: 2)

90: Total scores of players

91: Total score area of third player Detailed Technical Description of the Invention

The product in this invention is an upright cylinder in appearance and is penholder with a handle on the top of which toy can be attached/detached. The bottom face of product is always closed, but the top face of it is open when the toy is detached and the top face of it is closed when the toy is attached. On lateral face of the product, there are multiplication equations, division equations, holding handle, all hoop rotators and slots-locks of all hoops. Inside the product, there are 10 hoops with a diameter of at least 12 cm and a height of 0.8 cm. Each hoop has its own bearing to rotate independently. There are 10 notches on the 45° arc of the lateral face of these hoops. Opposite the 10 notches on hoops, there is a spring plunger (10 pieces on vertical) fixed to handle on the body of product, which enables hoops to rotate 45 degrees in nine steps and make a sound. On top face of the product, there is a game on the subject that students can play individually or in groups. The game part is further explained in detail in Figure 6.

The view of multiplication equations on front side of product lateral face, that is, multiplication side view of product, is given in Figure 1. In this view, product multiplication side (1), product top face (14), holding handle (10), all hoop rotators (13) and slots-locks of all hoops (20) are visible. Multiplication equations are written on product multiplication side (1). Multiplication side fixed area (2) consists of multiplication side fixed area: times symbols (3), multiplication side fixed area: multipliers (4) and multiplication side fixed area: equals symbols (5). Multiplication side variable area: multiplicands (6) and multiplication side variable area: products (7) are changing areas of product multiplication side (1). The representation approach of multiplication equation written on this side (1) is the same as in universal mathematical notation of equation. That is, multiplicand x multiplier = product. Equation parts of "x multiplier =" in this representation are defined as constant and equation parts of "multiplicand" and " product " are defined as variable. This definition requires that the "x", "multiplier" and "=" parts must be printed on product body on equations of product multiplication side (1), but the "multiplicand" and "product" parts must be variable on lateral face of hoops and these parts appear as varying. In summary, multiplication side fixed area (2) does not change at all (it is constant), but when hoops are rotated, multiplication side variable areas: multiplicands (6) and products (7) take different values. For example, according to Figure 1, if student wants to write the equation 2 x 10 = 20 on product multiplication side (1), he first holds handle (10) with his left hand, and then he holds hoop 10 rotator (12) with his right hand. Then, s/he moves hoop 10 rotator (12) in slot and lock of hoop 10 (19) towards himself until a “click” sound is heard and ^ x xo m obtains the < — > equation. If we represent this equation with its values, symbols and reference numbers, the related equation is 2 (8) x (16) 10 (17) = (18) 20 (9). In this equation 16, 17, and 18 are constant; but 8 and 9 are variables. Similarly, if s/he moves other hoop rotators (between 1-9) towards herself/himself once and stops at the sounds, then s/he obtains multiplication equations of 2 with 1-9 (2 x 1 = 2, 2 x 2 = 4, 2 x 3 = 6, . 2 x 9 = 18) on product multiplication side (1).

Examining Figure 1, multiplication side fixed area: times symbols (3) and multiplication side fixed area: multipliers (4), are positioned closed to multiplication side fixed area: multiplicands (6). In order for students to perceive and comprehend multiplication equation more easily, product multiplication side (1) was designed by considering integrity and proximity among visual design principles. Otherwise, multiplication equation would appear as ** “ @0. Thus, the principle of grouping in perception, integrity and proximity in the product is provided for equations. Since numbers and symbols are printed on product body (11) and lateral face of hoops, a font with serifs (Times New Roman, etc.) that increases readability is preferred. For the numbers and symbols printed on the product body (11) and lateral face of hoops, (Times New Roman, etc.) are preferred to increase readability. For legibility and not strain eyes, the ground color of product body (11) is straw yellow, the ground color of hoops’ lateral face is white, and color of numbers and symbols in equations is black.

The view of division equations on backside of product lateral face is given in Figure 2. In this view, product division side (21), product top face (14), holding handle (10), all hoop rotators (13) and slots-locks of all hoops (20) are visible. The division equations on product division side (21) are also appropriate to universal mathematical notation. The division equation is in the form of dividend ÷ divisor = quotient. The parts of "÷ divisor =" in this expression are defined as constant and parts of "dividend" and " quotient " are defined as variable. This definition requires that the "÷", "divisor" and "=" parts must be printed on product body on equations of product division side (21), but the "dividend" and " quotient " parts must be variable on lateral face of hoops and these parts appear as varying. In summary, division side fixed area (22) does not change at all (it is constant), but when hoops are rotated, division side variable areas: dividends (26) and quotients (27) take different values. For example, in Figure 2, if the student wants to write the equation 20 ÷ 10 = 2 on product division side (1), he first holds handle (10) with his right hand, and then he holds hoop 10 rotator (12) with his left hand. Then, s/he moves hoop 10 rotator (12) in slot and lock of hoop 10 (19) towards himself until a “click” sound is heard and obtains the _eq_uaq_on if _we represent this equation with its values, symbols and reference numbers, the related equation is 20 (28) ÷ (30) 10 (31) = (32) 2 (29). In this equation 30, 31 and 32 are constant; but 28 and 29 are variables. Similarly, if s/he moves the other hoop rotators (between 1-9) towards herself/himself once and stops at the sounds, then s/he obtains division equations of numbers 1-9 for 2 (2 ÷ 1 = 2, 4 ÷ 2 = 2, 6 ÷ 3 = 2 .... and 18 ÷ 9 = 2) on product division side (21).

As it can be understood from Figure 1 and Figure 2, parts of equations printed on product multiplication (1) and division (21) sides are designed as follows: "multiplicand x multiplier = product" and "dividend ÷ divisor = quotient" . In these equations, the multiplicand is equal to the quotient and the product is equal to the dividend and they appear on their sides through round and square holes respectively and-¾ ^~ A-·^') This representation approach of multiplication and division equations enables students to realize how the parts in equations change their positions based on rhythmic counting and to understand that these equations are inverse operations.

There are multiplication equations on front side of product's lateral face, and division equations on backside. On product multiplication side (1) there are 5 columns and 10 rows. In first column, there are round holes showing numbers range from 1 to 10 (multiplication side variable area: multiplicands (6)). Second column has multiplication side fixed area: times symbols (3). Third column contains constant numbers from 1 to 10 (multiplication side fixed area: multipliers (4)). Fourth column has multiplication fixed area: equals symbols (5). In fifth column, there are square holes showing 10 rhythmic multiples of numbers range froml-10 (multiplication side changing area: products (7)). There are also five columns on product division side (21) parallel to multiplication side. In first column, there are square holes showing 10 rhythmic multiples of numbers range froml-10 (division side variable area: products (26)). Second column has division side fixed area: over symbols (23). Third column contains constant numbers from 1 to 10 (division side fixed area: divisors (24)). Fourth column has division fixed area: equals symbols (25). In fifth column, there are round holes showing numbers range from 1 to 10 (division side variable area: quotients (27)).

All hoop rotators (13), located right in the middle of product multiplication (1) and division (21) sides and opposite holding handle (10), change multiplicands (6) and dividends (26) in the first columns. At the same time, the products (7) and quotients (27) of these equations change dynamically as they are changed. When no action is taken on product, all multiplicands (6) on product multiplication side (1) are 1, all multipliers (4) are numbers 1-10 from top to bottom, and all products (7) are numbers 1-10 from top to bottom. When no action is taken on product, on product division side (21), all dividends (26) are numbers from 1-10 from top to bottom, all divisors (24) are numbers from 1-10 from top to bottom, and all quotients (27) are 1. This situation is easily understood if the matrices in multiplication (52) and division (65) side views of hoops in Figure 4 and Figure 5 are examined.

When no action is taken on product, for example, for hoop 3, equations on multiplication (1) d division (21) sides are Q x a 3 3 3 an and Q but in first movement of hoop 3 these equations are respectively Q ³ 6 and ÷ 3 ~ (2 ) * ^ . This is true for all equations on product multiplication (1) and division (21) side. The individual movement of hoops allows the product to multiply numbers 1-10 with each other, both modularly and as a block, and to divide the products (dividends) into any of multiplicands/multipliers.

In Figure 3, top view of product without game/toy is exist. This view shows multiplication side of hoops (33), division side of hoops (34), penholder (35), lid of hoops (36), spring plunger positioning hoops (37), ten notches on lateral face of hoops (38), unused lateral face of hoops (39a, 39b, 39c), bearing of hoops (40), top face of hoops (41). The hoops (41) is divided into eight equal parts (slices) with a 45° arc angle. These parts are as follows: two of the them are multiplication side of hoops (33), two are division side of hoops (34), one is the slots-locks of all hoops, one is ten notches on lateral face of hoops, one is unused lateral face of hoops (39a) and one is unused lateral face of hoops (39b and 39c). According to representation approach of the equations, multiplication (33) and division (34) sides of hoops are opposite each other. Slots-locks of all hoops (20) are symmetrically in middle of them (33 and 34) and opposite to holding handle (10). The representation approach determines placement of matrices (52 and 65) explained in detail in Figure 4 and Figure 5 on the sides (33 and 34) of hoops. Figure 3 shows only hoop 1 ’s bearing as it is a top view, but bearings of hoops (40) are fix to product body (11) so that hoops in product can rotate in their own bearings without affecting each other.

When student moves any hoop rotator (13), one of ten notches on lateral face of the hoop (38) are opposite of spring plunger positioning the hoop (37). Each of 10 spring plunger (37) located vertically inside holding handle (10) is opposite ten notches on lateral face of hoops (38). The balls of these spring plungers (37) entered and positioned into ten notches (38) opened horizontally, so hoops rotate in a controlled manner and make sound at each rotation. The balls of the spring plungers (37) are positioned into the first notches when no action is taken on product. If student wants to write equations on product using slots-locks of all hoops (20) and all hoop rotators (13), s/he can rotate hoops forward or backward by a maximum of nine notches (steps). When all hoop rotators (13) are rotated nine steps in one direction, they (13) reach end of slots and can no longer rotate hoops in the same direction, so the slots become locks of the rotators (13). In each forward or backward step of hoops, equations of operations, inverse to each other, on the multiplication (1) and division (21) sides of product are written.

In Figure 4, multiplication side view of hoops (52) and multiplication side view of product without hoops (53) are given together. This figure shows multiplication side view of hoops 1-10 (hoop 1:42, hoop 2: 43, hoop 3: 44, hoop 4:45, hoop 5: 46, hoop 6: 47, hoop 7: 48, hoop 8: 49, hoop 9: 50 and hoop 10: 51). The upper part of this figure shows multiplication side view of hoops (52) that are invisible since they are behind view of product multiplication side (1) in Figure 1. In the lower part of this figure, without hoops multiplication side view of product (53) is given. If the product was designed as two nested cylinders, all equations on product could be written in blocks, not modular. However, this product is designed in such a way that equations can be written both modularly and in block form. The ability to write multiplication equations giving same product in different lines independently helps students comprehend the commutative property of multiplication (displacement of multiplicand by multiplier does not change product).

In Figure 5, division side view of hoops (65) and division side view of product without hoops (66) are given together. This figure indicates division side view of hoops 1-10 (hoop 1: 55, hoop 2: 56, hoop 3: 57, hoop 4: 58, hoop 5: 59, hoop 6: 60, hoop 7: 61, hoop 8 : 62, hoop 9: 63 and hoop 10: 64). When Figure 4, Figure 5 and representation approach of equations on product are examined together, numbers in multiplication (52) and division (65) side views of all hoops form two multiplication (52) and two division (65) matrices. There are four matrices (10x10) with 10 rows and 10 columns in total. These matrices are of two types, these are located on multiplication (52), and division (65) sides of hoops. In the first matrix, the numbers 1-10 from left to right are written 10 times one under the other. Therefore, each row of the first matrix has numbers 1-10 from left to right. For example, the numbers of row 3 and column 3 in the first matrix are respectively: left to right: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, and top to bottom: 3, 3, 3, 3, 3, 3, 3, 3, 3, 3. In the second matrix, the numbers are rhythmically written in incrementing 10 times forwards both in each row and in each column. Therefore, numbers in row and column in this matrix are the same. For example, numbers of row 3 and column 3 in this matrix are the same from left to right and from top to bottom, and are: 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, 24, 27, and 30. The first and second matrices are placed from left to right on multiplication side view of hoops (52), and the second and first matrices are placed from left to right on division side view of hoops (65). This placement serves representation approach of equations on product. Since size of product will depend on size of numbers in matrices, font size in this product is 7 points, the lower limit of reading for a healthy eye, which makes diameter of hoops at least 12 cm. While designing product, primary school students' need of playing and learning by playing game were not ignored and a game was developed for them. Both children's pedagogy, development and learning characteristics and educational game elements (dynamics, mechanics, awards, etc.) were taken into consideration in game design. The top view of game is given in Figure 6. In this game, students write equations in multiplication and division tables individually or as a group on penholder. Figure 6 shows toy, theoretical part of game in particular, it does not show penholder with equations that are practice of game. The toy is designed as an attachable and detachable (portable) lid on penholder. The product is used as a lidded toy when attached to the toy penholder, or as a penholder when not attached.

Figure 6 shows top face of product (14) when the toy is attached to the penholder. This face is divided into three area for game. These are game instruction area (68), selection area of number and operation type (69), and area showing equation frequency of game number. Game instruction area (68) expresses what to do to determine equations to write: "Swing toy, stop it and write equations where the number at which ball stops is product or dividend. " In selection area of number and operation type (69) on toy, there is selection transparent lid of selection area of number and operation type (70), game numbers (71) and oval ball selecting number and operation type (77). Area showing equation frequency of game number (72) shows number of total equation for game numbers (71) on "Indicator" label. In order for player to select only one of game numbers (71) with the oval ball (77), these numbers are written in selection area of number and operation type (69) inside hemisphere pits designed as no space between them. While developing game, considering frequencies of numbers that are product/dividend in multiplication and division equations as 1, it was determined that there are 42 different numbers in total. In all equations on product, frequency of equation/equations in which these 42 numbers are product/dividend is one (73), two (74), three (75) or four (76). That is, actually game numbers (71) are 42, and each of them is a product and dividend, equal to each other, with the same equation frequencies. These 42 numbers (71) were randomly placed in a 6x7 matrix consisting of 6 rows and 7 columns. Each of these numbers in matrix is written in hemisphere pits 0.7 cm in diameter and 0.3 cm deep. The oval ball (77) is used to randomly select number (product/dividend) to be played and equation type to be written in game. This oval shaped ball (77) is 0.5 cm long, 0.4 cm wide and 0.3 cm high. This ball is designed to be both faces with thin edges, camber in middle. Thus, the ball only rests on one of its two faces, and one face has a times symbol (x) and the other an over symbol (÷). Transparent lid (70) of selection area of number and operation type ensures that oval ball (77) only moves in selection area (69) of number and operation type and stops at game numbers (71). For example, if the ball (77) times symbol (x) is on the top face and stops in the pit of number 12, player understands from corresponding indicator (72) that 12 is product of 4 equations and writes the following equations whose product is 12 on penholder: 2 x 6 = 12, 6 x 2 = 12, 3 x 4 = 12 and 4 x 3 = 12. If the ball (77) stops at 12 with over (÷) symbol on top, player writes the following equations with 12 dividend on penholder: 12 ÷ 6 = 2, 12 ÷ 2 = 6, 12 ÷ 4 = 3 and 12 ÷ 3 = 4.

When game will be played for the first time, game tracking-scoring form given in Figure 7 should be explained to player by an adult who knows the subject and game. Thus, in game player records all equations that s/he can or cannot write on relevant form and improves his performance by controlling and monitoring (feedback, correction, compensation, etc.). Even when playing game alone, player can shake toy, take into account number and operation type oval ball stands at, express equations verbally and write them down on paper. Later, player can write each equation that s/he expresses verbally and in writing on penholder in one attempt and check it on relevant form and if it is correct, s/he can give herself/himself 1 point on the form and 0 if it is wrong. The game can be completed in more than one session, as game includes 200 equations in total, causing fatigue and getting boring in players in terms of cognitive load. If form is dated for different game sessions and it is fdled with different colored pencils, players can follow their own progress and make improvements. Unfortunately, as there is no competition and contest in individual game compared to multiplayer one, scoring loses its importance and making right or wrong becomes important. Hence, individual play depends on internal motivation more than on external motivation. In this sense, it is recommended to play the game in groups. If students play games in groups, socialization, competition and chance make game more exciting, fun and competitive. It is recommended the first few multiplayer games to be played under the supervision of a knowledgeable adult. Playing before or after is not an advantage, as all players have an equal right (move) to play games. However, if game numbers with a high frequency of equation are selected or game numbers played but not completed (played wrong or missing) are selected, there is a chance factor depending on equation frequency of these numbers.

When determining the order to play in multiplayer, each player shakes the toy, stops it, and the oval ball stops at one of the game numbers, and the players’ order of play from the highest number to the lowest number is determined. If the ball stops at the same number when determining order to play, these players determine order of play in the same approach.

The first player shakes the toy, stops it, and randomly selects any of game numbers and operation type by means of oval ball and determines the equations to write. The player verbally expresses equations to be written on penholder first, writes them on a blank paper and then writes equations on penholder in one attempt. The player gets 1 point for each equation correctly written in one attempt; otherwise s/he gets 0 points for each equation in all other cases. If selected number and operation type is complete, this number is not included in the game and player who chooses this number plays again. In other words, the selected number and operation type are followed from the game tracking-scoring form, if equation is scored, it will not be played again. However, if there is an incomplete equations belonging to number and operation type, the player can only write incomplete equations and uses the right of his turn. The game ends when the last player at the time of playing game writes the last equation. When the game is over, the scores of each player are added up and the total scores of players are compared. The player with the most points in the game wins first. The player with the second most points will be the second, and in this way, the order of success of the players is determined. In particular, while playing multiple games, the game tracking-scoring form should be necessarily used for both tracking written and unwritten equations and tracking player performances. In this sense, the game tracking-scoring form (or its photocopy) is given to the players at the end of the game, which gives feedback about the equations they could or could not write. Thus, both the game can continue to be played from where it left off, and the players can receive written feedback- correction about their performance and make remedial studies.

In Figure 7, game tracking-scoring form view is given. It is very important to use this form, whether game in product is played individually or in groups. This form should be used for players to evaluate their own performance, to follow equations written or not written in the game, and to play game according to rules. In this form, there are field of game numbers (78), operation type (79), key showing all equations of game numbers (80), player performance record (81), and third player performance record (82). In this figure, multiplication equations of number two (83), division equations of number two (84), third player’s multiplication scoring area for number two (85), third player’s division scoring area for number two (86), operation type for number two: multiplication (87), operation type for number two: division (88), selected number with oval ball (89), total scores of players (90), and total score area of third player (91) are displayed. Field of game numbers (78) has 42 game numbers in ascending order from top to bottom. Area showing the operation type of number on which oval ball (77) stands is field of operation type (79). Operation type is symbolically (x, ÷) displayed in field of operation type (79). While controlling equations written in game, key of showing all equations of game numbers (80) is checked. After controlling written equations, scoring is made in player performance record field. Three players are included in the form in Figure 7; number of players can be increased if desired. However, every player involved means other players have to wait and get bored more time to play. Therefore, this game is recommended to play with three players, and there is player performance record field (81) for up to three players in the form. Equations written by the players are checked by looking at the relevant key (80) and 1 point for correct equations and 0 points for incorrect (or incomplete) equations are written in record field (81). Suppose third player chose number two (89) with oval ball twice and chose operation type for number two: multiplication (87) in the first time and division (88) in the second time. In order to control multiplication performance of this player, multiplication equations (83) of number two are looked, 1 point for correct equations and 0 points for wrong equations are written in the relevant scoring area (85). The same is done to control division performance of third player. At the end of the game, points in player performance record field (81) are added up for each player and the order of success in game is determined by comparing the total points (90) of players.

Implementation of Invention to the Industry It is better to use plastic material for body, handle and hoops of this product, having cylindrical shape; plastic, wood, and metal materials for the other parts of product. In addition, since lid of selected area of number and operation type on toy is transparent, a suitable raw material, preferably transparent plastic, can be used. Only springs of spring plungers that position hoops and rotate them in a controlled manner can be made of metal or they can be used as semi- manufactured products. In summary, suitable raw materials and semi- manufactured products can be used in production of different parts of product. The fact that product is intended especially for primary school students requires use of healthy materials in production, and its longevity requires use of materials resistant to wear and tear. The product is for education sector and can be easily produced in mass with automation systems in relevant production area of industry; therefore, product has properties applicable to industry.

Claims

1. The invention is a concrete instructional material that helps students learn forward-backward rhythmic counting and multiplication-division tables in primary school mathematics and allows students to play game on the subject individually or in group, record the game, score it and thus monitor their learnings, and it includes the following characteristics:

- product body (11) resembling a vertical cylindrical penholder with bottom (15) and top (14) faces of the same diameter circle and holding handle (10),

- on front side and backside of lateral face of the body (11) (symmetrically opposite each other), product multiplication (1) side and product division (21) side, respectively,

- fixed areas (2: 3, 4 and 5 in Figure 1) and variable areas (6 and 7 in Figure 1) defined in product multiplication (1) side, and fixed areas (22: 23, 24 and 25 Figure 1) and variable areas (26 and 27 in Figure 2) defined in product division (21) side,

- the numbers/matrices on multiplication (52) and division (65) sides of hoops visible through round (6 and 27) and square (7 and 26) holes in areas defined as variable in these equations (respectively in Figure 4: 42-51 and 52 and Figure 5: 55-64 and 65),

- all hoop rotators (13) and its slots-locks (20) making numbers in these matrices (Figure 4: 52 and Figure 5: 65) visible in variable areas (Figures 1: 6 and 7 and Figures 2: 26 and 27),

- penholder (35) and lid (36) of hoops in product,

- spring plungers (37) positioning hoops in the handle (10) integrated with the body (11) and 10 notches (38) on lateral face of hoops where balls at the end of these plungers (37) are placed,

- bearings (40) of hoops integrated with the product body (11) enabling the hoops to rotate independently,

- unused lateral faces (39a, 39b and 39 c) of hoops,

- game instruction area (68) on top face (14) of product, selection area (69) of number and operation type, transparent lid (70) of selection area of number and operation type, game numbers (71), area (72) showing equation frequency of game numbers and oval ball (77) selecting number and operation type,

- game tracking-scoring form with field (78) of game numbers and their operation type field (79), key (80) showing all equations of game numbers, player performance record field (81), and total scores of players (90).

2. In compliance with Claim 1, it resembles a vertical cylindrical penholder with a diameter of 12 cm with the body (11) that can be held by left or right hand from holding handle (10).

3. In compliance with Claim 1 and Claim 2, it includes product multiplication side (1), where forward rhythmic counts and multiplication equations are written on the front side of the body (11), and product division side (21), where backward rhythmic counts and division equations are simultaneously written on the backside.

4. In compliance with Claim 1 and Claim 3, it includes fixed areas defined in equations written on multiplication (1) and division (21) side (2: 3, 4 and 5 in Figure 1 and 22: 23, 24 and 25 in Figure 2, respectively) and variable areas (6 and 7 in Figure 1 and 26 and 27 in Figure 2) defined on these sides (1 and 21, respectively).

5. In compliance with Claim 1, Claim 3 and Claim 4, it includes matrices (52 in Figure 4 and 65 in Figure 5) in multiplication (52) and division (65) side views of hoops, which are visible through holes in areas (6 and 7 in Figure 1 and 26 and 27 in Figure 2) defined as variable in equations on the multiplication (1) and division (21) sides.

6. In accordance with claim 1 and claim 5, it includes multiplication side and division side views (42-51 in Figure 4) of the matrices (52 in Figure 4 and 65 in Figure 5) on lateral face of hoops of the areas defined as varying in equations written on product body (11).

7. In compliance with Claim 1 and Claim 5, it includes all hoop rotators (13) that allow changing numbers in matrices (52 in Figure 4 and 65 in Figure 5) and slots-locks (20) of all hoops that enable all hoops to move and stop in a controlled manner.

8. In compliance with Claim 1, Claim 6 and Claim 7, it includes lid of hoops (36) that allow numbers in matrices (52 in Figure 4 and 65 in Figure 5) to change, and penholder (35) in product body (11).

9. In compliance with Claim 1, it includes spring plungers (37) positioning all hoops in product body (11) and 10 notches (38) on lateral face of hoops opposite to these plungers (37) to write equations. lO.In compliance with Claim 1 and Claim 9, it includes bearings (40) of hoops that enable all hoops in body (11) to rotate independently without moving each other.

11. In compliance with Claim 1 and Claim 9, it includes unused lateral faces (39a, 39b and 39c) of hoops in the body (11).

12.1n compliance with Claim 1, on top (14) face of product it includes game instruction area (68), selection area (69) of number and operation type under the transparent lid (70), oval ball (77) which randomly selects number from game numbers (71) and operation type in field (78) of game numbers, and area (72) showing equations frequency of game numbers.

13.1n compliance with Claim 1 and Claim 12, in game tracking-scoring form it includes the field (79) of operation type of game numbers (71), key (80) showing all equations of game numbers, player performance recording field (81) and players total scores of players (90).